The Marlborough College admissions process
Nestled in the Wiltshire countryside, Marlborough College stands as one of the UK’s most prestigious independent schools.
Founded in 1843, the school boasts a rich history of academic excellence and a strong sense of community. Marlborough's ethos combines tradition with innovation, preparing students not just for exams, but for life after school and university. With a commitment to nurturing curiosity, creativity and resilience, the school provides a balanced education, encouraging pupils to develop both intellectually and personally. One unique feature of Marlborough is its co-educational system—since 1968, it has welcomed both boys and girls, creating a diverse and inclusive environment.
The college’s stunning Gothic architecture and expansive grounds are steeped in history, yet the school remains forward-thinking, offering top-notch facilities in science, arts, and sports. This blend of old and new is what makes Marlborough College so appealing to families looking for a holistic education.
The admissions process
Preparing for admission to Marlborough College is a multi-faceted process, and it’s never too early to start. The school admits pupils at various stages, but most commonly at 13+ (Year 9) and 16+ (Sixth Form). Here's what you need to know:
Entrance exams
For entry at 13+, pupils typically sit the ISEB (Independent Schools Examination Board) Common Entrance exams, which cover core subjects like English, Maths, and Science, as well as languages and Humanities. It's essential to focus on these subjects early to ensure a strong foundation. For Sixth Form entry, pupils are assessed via subject-specific exams and an interview process.
Interviews
The interview plays a pivotal role in the admissions process. It's not just about what you know, but how you think. Schools like Marlborough value creativity, intellectual curiosity, and confidence in expressing ideas. A good way to prepare is to stay engaged with current events and practise discussing them thoughtfully. Being comfortable with your own opinions, while also open to considering new perspectives, is key.
Putting together a well-rounded application
Marlborough looks beyond academics when assessing applicants. They value pupils who are engaged in extracurricular activities—whether it’s music, sports, drama, or volunteering. Showcasing leadership, teamwork, and commitment in these areas can make your application stand out. Consider including a personal statement that reflects your passions, interests, and any achievements beyond the classroom.
Fees
The financial commitment for attending Marlborough College is considerable but reflects the level of resources and opportunities available to pupils. For the academic year 2024-25, the fees are as follows:
Full boarding fees: £48,429 per annum
Day fees: £31,839 per annum
Additional costs can include uniform, textbooks, trips, and extracurricular activities, so it’s worth budgeting for these as well. Flexi-boarding options are also available, which may help to manage costs depending on your needs.
Key dates to know
The school year at Marlborough College is divided into three terms:
Michaelmas Term: Early September to mid-December
Lent Term: Early January to late March
Summer Term: Late April to early July
Key dates to note include:
Half-term breaks: Typically a week-long break halfway through each term
Exeats: Weekend breaks where boarders may return home
Notable events: The school’s annual Commemoration Day in June is a highlight, with performances, prize-giving and celebrations.
Exact dates may vary from year to year, so be sure to consult Marlborough’s academic calendar on their website.
Admissions timeline
The admissions process at Marlborough College is highly structured and varies depending on the year group:
13+ Entry (Year 9)
Initial application: Register by the end of Year 5, with an application fee
ISEB Pre-Test: Taken in Year 6 or 7
Assessment Day: For those successful in the pre-test, an assessment day is held in Year 7, involving interviews and group activities
Common Entrance exam: Sat in Year 8
16+ Entry (Sixth Form)
Application: Submit by the autumn term of Year 11
Entrance exams: Taken in early November, covering your proposed A-level subjects
Interview: Alongside exams, candidates attend an interview to assess their suitability
How competitive is it?
Marlborough College is known for its selectivity, with a high number of applicants vying for a limited number of places. For 13+ entry, the competition is fierce, with roughly 400 applicants competing for around 170 places. Sixth Form entry is similarly competitive, with fewer places available. While exact acceptance rates vary from year to year, having a well-rounded application is essential to success.
Notable alumni
Marlborough College has a long history of producing successful alumni, from politicians and entrepreneurs to artists and authors. One of its most famous former pupils is HRH Catherine, Princess of Wales, whose time at the school is fondly remembered for her involvement in sports and leadership roles. Other distinguished alumni include the poet John Betjeman, sculptor Henry Moore and journalist James Harding.
Scholarships and bursaries
Marlborough offers several scholarships, rewarding excellence in academics, music, sports and the arts. These can be merit-based, with applications typically requiring an additional examination or audition process. Scholarships generally provide a fee reduction, but they are not full awards.
For families requiring financial assistance, Marlborough offers bursaries. These are means-tested and can cover up to 100% of fees, depending on financial need. Bursary applications must be submitted alongside your application, and the school’s finance office will guide you through the process.